Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed that retaliatory strikes have targeted 500 sites linked to Israel and the United States across the Middle East. The statement marked a sharp escalation in the ongoing conflict, as reported by TRT World.
In an official statement, the Guards said, "Since the start of the conflict, the brave soldiers of the Iranian armed forces have attacked 60 strategic targets and 500 American military targets and targets of the Zionist regime (Israel)," adding that more than 700 drones and hundreds of missiles were launched.
An explosion was seen in the UAE city of Ras Al Khaimah, as Iran continues its retaliatory strikes across the Gulf region pic.twitter.com/1pSkMiSGU5
Tehran says the attacks are a response to joint US-Israeli strikes that began on February 28. Those strikes reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and hit multiple sites across the country.
Some Iranian missiles directly struck Israeli areas, including Beit Shemesh and areas near Jerusalem. At least 11 people were killed and many others injured in Israel.
Iran also targeted US military bases in the region, resulting in at least four American service members killed and several wounded. The US Central Command confirmed that 18 American troops have been “seriously wounded,” according to CNN. Spokesperson Capt Tim Hawkins said the update followed confirmation of a fourth fatality.
Read more: No sign Iran’s nuclear sites were hit in US Israel attack, UN body says
Gulf countries hosting US forces, including the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, reportedly faced Iranian missile and drone attacks on military and infrastructure sites.
Meanwhile, the Red Crescent said at least 555 people have been killed in Iran in strikes on 131 counties. The deadliest incident occurred in Minab, where an attack on a girls’ elementary school reportedly killed 180 students.
The situation remains tense as both sides continue large-scale attacks, raising fears of a wider regional war.
The numbers are shocking. Civilian areas are now affected. This could spread further if not controlled. Casualties are rising fast. The world may push for urgent talks to stop more loss.
